Mower theft could be linked to other incidents

A RIDE-ON mower theft near Redditch could be linked to other incidents in North Worcestershire.

The green Weed Eater mower worth £1,500 was taken from a secure shed alongside a Husqvarna strimmer worth £200 between 3pm and 3.30pm on Monday (March 10) in Trickses Lane, Ham Green.

A neighbour reported seeing a green Ford Transit type van on the grounds on the property around 3pm.

Further incidents between 4pm on Monday and 11am the following day in Foley Gardens, Stoke Prior, when a green Yamaha quad bike worth £5,500 - registration number VU11 EYC - was taken from a secure garage.

At around 12pm on the Monday, two men in a van had pulled up outside the address and offered to cut the tree down in the rear garden. At the time the victim was in his garage with the door open and took them to his garden to discuss the work before declining the offer.

A third happened in Fockbury Lane in Dodford between 12pm and 5pm on Wednesday (March 12) when a Suzuki 250cc quad bike worth £1,600 was stolen from a secure barn.

A man had visited the address at 3pm and asked the victim if she wanted work doing on her trees, which she declined. He was white, aged 35 to 40, 5ft 9in, of stocky build with wavy thick dark hair and wearing a black t-shirt.

PC Greg Moorman of West Mercia Police said: "We are looking into whether these incidents are linked, and in the meantime are asking residents, particularly those living in rural areas near Bromsgrove and Redditch, to be vigilant and to consider improving the security of outbuildings.

"We are also appealing to people to be on their guard if they are approached by anyone cold-calling and offering to do work for them, such as cutting down trees. If work really needs doing, it is best to ask friends, family or neighbours to recommend a reputable company, and make an appointment for someone to call round to give a quote at a convenient time."

Anyone with any information should call PC Moorman on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.